What is engage? Pronunciation and usage in English

engage means . Learn how to pronounce and use engage through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of engage

engageverb

/ɪnˈɡeɪdʒ//ɛnˈɡeɪdʒ/
Definition & pronunciation of engage

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "engage" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ɪˈɡeɪndʒ/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. ɪ – as in "bit" (a short, quick 'i' sound)
  2. ˈgeɪ – This is the tricky part! It sounds like "gay" (the emotion, not the color). The stress (the emphasis) is clearly on this syllable. It's a diphthong (a gliding sound) – it starts like a short "i" and moves towards a "e" sound.
  3. ndʒ – pronounced like the "nj" in "sing" or "finger." Think of it as a single, blended sound.

Putting it together: "Ih-GEY-nj"

Here are some tips:

  • Don't say "en-gage" like you would a noun. The emphasis is on the second syllable.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "engage" and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: (https://forvo.com/word/engage/) - This website has pronunciations recorded by native speakers from different regions.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce engage" – you'll find many videos.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some more example sentences to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word engage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "engage" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a breakdown categorized by its primary uses:

1. To Become Involved (Most Common)

  • Meaning: To become actively involved in something; to participate.
  • Examples:
    • "I want to engage myself in a community project." (Become involved)
    • "The students were encouraged to engage with the material." (Participate)
    • "She wants to engage in a conversation about politics." (Start and participate in a conversation)
    • “The audience didn’t engage with the speaker; they were just scrolling on their phones.” (Didn’t participate)

2. To Attract or Capture Attention

  • Meaning: To attract someone's interest, attention, or involvement.
  • Examples:
    • "The advertisement was designed to engage the viewer." (Attract attention)
    • "A good story must engage the reader from the first page." (Capture interest)
    • "The museum uses interactive exhibits to engage visitors." (Capture attention and draw them in)

3. To Connect or Link (Mechanical/Technical)

  • Meaning: To connect or fix something together; to lock in place. This usage is more formal and often used in technical contexts.
  • Examples:
    • "The mechanic will engage the gears." (Connect/lock)
    • "The clutch needs to be fully engaged." (Fully connected)
    • "The bolt was engaged with a wrench.” (Mechanically fastened)

4. To Confront or Face (Often with difficulty)

  • Meaning: To confront or come to terms with something difficult or challenging.
  • Examples:
    • “He decided to engage with his grief rather than try to avoid it.” (Confront)
    • "The company is engaged in a legal battle." (Facing a legal challenge)
    • "She was engaged to a man she no longer loved." (Facing a difficult relationship)

5. (Specifically - Marriage) To Be Maritaly Committed

  • Meaning: (Formal) To be engaged to be married.
  • Examples: “They are engaged and planning their wedding.”

Key Phrases & Variations

  • Engage with: This is a very common phrase meaning "to interact with" or "to communicate with." (e.g., "Engage with your customers.")
  • Engage someone: To involve someone, attract their attention, or start a conversation with them. (e.g., "The speaker engaged the audience.")
  • Engaging: (adjective) Meaning interesting, exciting, or captivating. (e.g., “It’s an engaging book.”)

Tips for Choosing the Right Meaning

  • Context is key! The surrounding words and situation will usually make it clear which meaning of "engage" is intended.
  • Consider the subject: Is it about people, machines, abstract concepts, or a relationship?

Could you give me a sentence you'd like me to analyze, or a specific situation you're wondering how to use "engage" in? That way, I can give you a more targeted explanation.

Synonyms for the word engage

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